playa del carmen tour

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Playa del Carmen Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Playa del Carmen. We've got 96 adventures going to Playa del Carmen, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 58 days. The most popular month to go is November, which has the largest number of tour departures.

96 Playa Del Carmen tour packages with 768 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Cancún Escape: Beaches, Cenotes, & Crystal-Clear Water

MEXICO – Ruins Cenotes & Swim with Whale Shark

Mexico Yucatán Experience

A brilliant trip with a great combination of activities and an excellent tour guide who was so fun and helpful along the way and who shared so much information with us about Mexican history and culture.

• In-depth Cultural

Riviera Maya Adventure 6D/5N

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mayan Sun Southbound: Boat Rides & Ruins

Exceeded expectations! It was a great tour and Sid made everything seamless and easy

Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights

Great. Exceeded our expectations Selected experiences were all highlights. Hotels fine - some minor niggles but no worries. Big rave for Alejandro - our guide. Just made the trip so alive and interesting.

8 Days Tailor-Made Best Mexico Tour, Daily Start

Our guide Enrique and driver Riccardo we’re both very accomodating and provided great support making our trip stress free. At every stop Enrique checked accomodation, explained breakfast, meals and checked the room. His knowledge of each site and the historical context of significant events was exceptional. We would highly recommend this trip with this guide and driver

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Yucatan Peninsula Adventure (including Bacalar)

Mexico Unplugged

Viva Mexico

Viva Mexico Tour was the perfect mix of local culture, delicious food, historical sites and vacation vibes! Ethan was an excellent tour leader and is clearly genuinely interested in Mexican life. JP and Jose were absolutely brilliant too! A must do tour for a solo traveller. And when they say everything is included - it really is!

Yucatan Quintana Roo Experience

Overall the activities during the tour were great. Loved all of them, however I would strongly advise against upgrading your accomodation. We upgraded and upon comparing things on booking.com most of the hotels we were placed in were not an upgrade and did not warrant the extra amount we paid. Communication was great throughout, the places visited were really worthwhile. Loved Merida! Would recommend this to people.

• Coach / Bus

Highlights of Mexico

Tour leader was kind and helpful and overall knowledgeable Hotels are too basic and mostly old and rundown. Some places showers barely have enough water Itinerary is good. Two days out of 7 have very very long drive.

Delve Deep: Mexico

Everything about this tour was perfect! All of the places, islands, cenotes and pyramids were stunning and breathtaking. The hotels were great as well and it was just so convenient to be driven everywhere. But I have to say that the best about this tour was our 2 guides Amado and Luis as well as our driver Ismael. They took care of us every minute of the tour, went down waterfalls and up the pyramids with us and made us feel like visiting Mexico with family. Thank you for this truly amazing experience!

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Premium Mexico in Depth

2 Weeks Tailor-Made Private Mexico Tours, Daily Start

What people love about playa del carmen tours.

Awesome trip, great way to see so much of Mexico in a short space of time. Top moments were the beach at Holbox, swimming in the 7 colours lagoon, experiencing the cenotes, all the guacamole, delicious breakfast recommendations, seeing Xichen Itsa and biking in Tulum. Our guide was Eve and she was THE BEST. We have done a bunch of other trips and she was by far the most personable, creative, fun, lovely person with a lot of experience and wonderful ability to share her knowledge with us. Highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to party and catch a lot of culture all in one trip. I loved that the group was only 10 people, gave us a chance to meet everyone and there wasn’t a divide in the group nor too many people.

Great trip with memorable moments.

Tours starting from Playa del Carmen

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• to Latin America (19)
• to Mexico (8)
• Mexico Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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Playa Del Carmen Tours & Excursions

Choose from over hundreds of tours…find your adventure!

About Playadelcarmenexcursions

Find the perfect playa del carmen tours and excursions for you and your family.

Playa del Carmen, nestled along the stunning Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, offers an array of unforgettable tours and excursions that cater to every traveler’s desires. This vibrant coastal town, renowned for its crystalline turquoise waters and pristine white-sand beaches, serves as the perfect gateway to explore the wonders of the Riviera Maya. Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation, Playa del Carmen has it all.

Playadelcarmenexcursions.com connects you with the best tours and excursions at the best prices in Playa Del Carmen.

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Playa del Carmen Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Top Tours in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa del carmen tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full Day Tulum Ruins Tour Cenote and Swimming with Turtles

2. VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour

3. Half-Day Sea Turtle and Cenote Snorkeling Tour from Cancun & Riviera Maya

4. Xplor Park All-Inclusive Admission - With Lunch and Drinks

5. Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen Including Cenote Swim

6. Full Experience Isla Mujeres: Food aboard + Premium drinks + Snorkel + Free time

7. Playa del Carmen Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim and Mayan Village Visit

8. Xcaret Park Day Trip with Priority Access, Lunch and Night Show

9. Chichen Private Experience

10. Extreme Buggy Adventures Zipline and Cenote from Playa del Carmen

11. Chichén Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid with Lunch and transportation.

12. Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil, and Coba Ruins Reduced Group

13. Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with freshly grilled lunch

14. Coba, Tulum Multun-Ha Cenote and Paradise Beach Reduced Group

15. Cirque du Soleil JOYA Admission Tickets

16. Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves

17. Tour to the Brewery with Tasting and Fifth Avenue

18. Private Transfer to/from Cancun airport

19. Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour

20. Private Transportation to/from Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya

21. Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch and Open Bar Onboard

22. VIP Tulum Private Tour

23. Xcaret Park Entry Tickets with Cultural Night Show Included

24. 4x1: Coba, Cenote, Tulum and Playa del Carmen Tour from Cancun

25. Tulum Guided Tour, Magical Cenote, Lagoon Snorkeling and Beachside Lunch

26. Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling.

27. Private Tour The Best Cenotes in Tulum Riviera Maya

28. Mayan Adventure Snorkeling Tour from Playa del Carmen or Riviera Maya

29. Tulum Ruins, ATV Extreme, and Cenotes Tour from Riviera Maya

30. Bestseller! Tulum Private Tour with Turtles and Cenote Snorkeling

What travellers are saying.

• Michael S 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bucket List 50th Anniversary Celebration. Great trip, beautiful water, weather and sun! Crew was outstanding, entertaining and professional. Lunch was great! Water was a little rough for snorkeling but still had fun. Read more Review of: Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with freshly grilled lunch Written April 24, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Full Day Tulum Ruins Tour Cenote and Swimming with Turtles
• Cirque du Soleil® JOYÀ Admission Tickets
• Half-Day Sea Turtle and Cenote Snorkeling Tour from Cancun & Riviera Maya
• VIP Chichen Itza Private Tour
• Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour
• Delphinus Riviera Maya
• Delphinus Xcaret
• Living Dreams Mexico
• The Cenote Guy - Cenote Diving
• Absolute Adventure Mexico
• Kay Tours Mexico
• Boutique Tours Mexico
• Triton diving
• Rimain Tours
• Cenote Xperience

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Eat, Stay, Play: The Ultimate Playa Del Carmen Guide

Playa del Carmen is the perfect vacation getaway for anyone who loves beautiful beaches, delicious food, and fun activities. Located on the Caribbean Sea side of Mexico, PDC is nestled right between the spring break hub Cancun and the growing hotspot Tulum . Oftentimes overlooked for some of the other popular cities, I found Playa del Carmen to have just as much in terms of vacation necessities, with a more local and authentic Mexican feel.

The Ultimate Guide to Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is perfect for a solo traveler looking to spend a few days in paradise or the group chat that wants to hang on the beach all day and turn up at night. I found the area to have a little bit of everything for everyone, so here’s my guide on where to eat, stay, and play for the ultimate Playa del Carmen vacation.

Getting Around

The easiest way to get to Playa del Carmen is to fly into Cancun Airport and then make your way south. You can rent a car and drive the one hour down to PDC, take a taxi, or you can catch the ADO bus, which will cost you less than $40 roundtrip. Overall, Playa del Carmen is an easy and safe city to navigate. If you stay on or close to Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue), you’ll be within walking distance to a ton of stores, restaurants, and nightlife. Most taxi rides were between 100 and 150 pesos, which is less than $10 USD. Renting a car is also an option, but with things being very walkable and taxis being fairly inexpensive, it’s not a necessity. Another great way to get around is bikes, which you can rent to use throughout the city.

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The Thompson Hotel

The Thompson Hotel is for the folks who know that where you stay on vacation absolutely does matter. This luxury property offers chic rooms and upscale suites, onsite restaurants, and a spa for those who are looking to pamper themselves. One of the standout features of this property is the rooftop infinity pool, which has 360-degree views of the city and is absolutely stunning. This is your type of hotel if you value immaculate views, delicious eats, prime location, and live DJs.

Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen

Grand Hyatt offers a prime beachfront location, while also being steps away from the mix on Quinta Avenida. I like that this property allows you to take in the calm beauty of the Caribbean, while also being in close proximity to the action within the city. You get both authentic Mexican food and some international fare at the resort restaurants, and this property also has an infinity pool that gives views of the ocean.

If you don’t have the funds to spend on a hotel stay, but still want clean and comfortable accommodations, do not overlook Airbnb. You can find super reasonably priced apartments close to the strip that will leave you in the heart of all the action. Many of these buildings feature 24-hour security, infinity pools, top-notch gyms, and rooftop bars. This is a great way to save some money, while not sacrificing the quality of the accommodations you like.

Ictio Fish House

One of the best parts of being near the Caribbean Sea is having access to fresh seafood, and Ictio Fish House is the place to go for it. Located just a block off of the 5th Avenida strip, this small seafood restaurant is a quieter change compared to some of the busier and more touristy restaurants located directly on the strip. They have both indoor and outdoor seating available, but if you can snag a spot at the bar, the service is top notch and you can watch the bartender put together your craft cocktail.

Everything they serve is delicious and tastes authentic, so you really can't go wrong when ordering. But to start, the crispy jumbo shrimp and calamari are perfect for sharing. Other must-try dishes are the garlic butter catch of the day and the adobo-styled octopus.

Ask anyone for a recommendation for the best tacos in Playa del Carmen, and I promise you they will point you to El Fogon. You know a spot is good when it’s filled with just as many locals as tourists, and there’s a line outside at 1 p.m. This no-frills spot serves up authentic Mexican favorites like el pastor tacos, chicken quesadillas, guacamole, and margaritas. Every dish comes with the fixings and is not only super filling but extremely affordable. You can easily get a full meal and a drink for less than $20 USD. They have more than one location, so you can taste some of their delicious tacos no matter what part of PDC you stay in.

L&L by Lara&Luca

Before you hit the beach for day drinking, you need a hearty breakfast from L&L to start your day. This cute cafe is the smaller “sister” restaurant to Lara&Luca , another popular breakfast and lunch cafe in Playa. I liked that L&L is less busy and more laid back than the other location. They serve up typical breakfast and lunch items such as eggs, coffee, sandwiches, and French toast.

My favorite item was the ham and cheese croissant, which could be enjoyed on their outdoor seating or taken to enjoy on the go. They also have yummy pastries, but these sell out quickly, so be sure to go early.

If you’re a fried fish lover like me and appreciate sea-to-table service, El Pirata is the place to go. This restaurant is tucked away towards the end of the main 5th Avenida strip, so you might miss it if you aren’t looking for it. The restaurant serves up a plethora of tasty dishes like fresh ceviche, garlic shrimp, and shrimp empanadas, and has a full beverage menu for your libation needs. However, the fried fish is truly the star of the show.

When you order, they bring to your table a few of the fresh fish that were caught that day and allow you to choose which lucky one you want them to fry for you. And let me tell you, picking your own fried fish just hits different! It was one of my favorite meals in Playa del Carmen.

There are so many delicious places to eat in Playa del Carmen so taking a local food tour is the best way to try a little bit of everything. I love taking food tours when I travel because not only is it a great way to try a range of different local dishes, but the tour guides usually give you a history lesson during the tour where you learn more about the history of certain dishes and the country as a whole. In Playa Del Carmen, I took a local food tour with GetYourGuide, where we stopped at several different locations for tacos, fresh fruit juice, tamales, and more.

I value it when there’s a local leading the tour because it’s a way to support the locals and also learn things that only people native to the location would know. While we walked, the guide shared a lot of insight about Mexico and Playa del Carmen, while giving recommendations for places to eat during our trip.

Cenotes are natural sinkholes or underground caverns that have pools of water in which you can explore, dive, and swim in. You will find cenotes all around Mexico, but there are several in the Playa del Carmen region. Cenotes vary in size and also the depth of water, so even if you don’t know how to swim, you can find a cenote to explore at your own comfort level. Two beautiful cenotes you can explore near PDC are Cenote Azul and Cenote Dos Ojos.

Cenote Azul is perfect for snorkeling because of the crystal clear waters that allow you to see the colorful fish and plant life underneath. Cenote Dos Ojos is perfect for explorers due to the mesmerizing underground caverns and rock formations throughout. You can take a trip to the cenotes on your own or book a tour that may take you to several different cenotes.

Playa Del Carmen has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, so beach hopping is a must while vacationing in the area. Whether you want a chill, relaxing beach day or you are thinking of jet skiing on the blue waters, there is a beach for you. There are several beaches along the coast of Playa del Carmen, some that are within walking distance of most hotels, and others that you may need to travel to get to but are totally worth it.

Playa Mamitas is one of the most popular beaches in PDC due to its location near the heart of the city, and also because of the crystal clear waters and white sand. Playa Mamitas is also a great spot for entertainment and the occasional beach party for the folks wanting to turn up. Playacar Beach is another great option that is located in the upscale Playacar neighborhood, south of downtown Playa del Carmen.

It is known for its pristine beauty and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation and seclusion. Other beaches to consider are Punta Esmeralda and Xpu-ha Beach, so you’ll have an option for every day of your trip, depending on your mood.

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Robin D. Thomas is a brunch loving, Brooklyn born and raised Licensed Social Worker currently working in the Bronx. When she's not writing about all things wellness, entertainment and love, you can find her eating her way through different cities and tending to her plants. Connect with her on IG and Twitter at @_MissRobin or on her Instagram wellness page @thisnoirethat.

ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On for Their Cities

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As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List , a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.

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I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose. II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique. III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves. IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity. V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life. VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.

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Rihanna talks shedding expectations and finding balance as a mother.

Since becoming a mother in 2022, Rihanna has defined parenthood by her terms and hopes to pass that sense of autonomy on to her children.

For Vogue China’s April cover story, Rihanna shared her perspective on raising her two sons with A$AP Rocky , and how she hopes to preserve her children’s uniqueness, devoid of societal expectations .

"The most beautiful thing...is that [children] come into the world with their own individuality and sincerity, without any logic or conformity,” she told the publication. “Which usually makes you feel that you must fit into a certain group."

The “Work” artist, known for her trendsetting style and captivating persona , expressed her desire to support children in fully embracing their individuality and encouraging them to be whoever they want to be. "It's really beautiful to see and I want to continue to help them navigate that and make sure that they know they can be whoever they want to be,” she says.

She continues, “They should embrace it completely, because it's beautiful, and it's unique. I love them just that way."

From shattering music charts to shaking up the beauty industry , Rihanna has forged a path that has since created the “dream” life we see today. One that she says has made her parents proud of.

“I’m living my dream,” she continued. “My parents were very proud of that because they just wanted me to be happy and successful. So, I think the key thing is to find some kind of balance. Yes, balance is important. Do this and you get the best of both worlds. You can write your own life the way you want, and it will be beautiful. Sometimes, you just need to let go of everyone’s expectations and start living your own story .”

Rihanna, who shares sons, RZA, 23 months, and Riot, 8 months, with rapper A$AP Rocky, recently shared her vision for expanding her family in the future in Interview Magazine .

When stylist Mel Ottenberg asked about the number of additional children she hoped to have, Rihanna replied, "As many as God wants me to have.”

"I don't know what God wants, but I would go for more than two. I would try for my girl,” she adds. “But of course, if it's another boy, it's another boy."

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10 Best Playa del Carmen Tours and Activities You Should Experience Now

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Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular destinations for travelers to the Yucatan Peninsula (right after Cancun ) — and for good reason… This is one of the coolest destinations in the area, offering tons to see and loads of things to do in Playa del Carmen . In order to get the most out of your time in the Riviera Maya and the Yucatan Peninsula, here’s your cheat sheet to the best Playa del Carmen tours and activities .

About Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is an ideal basecamp from which to explore different Mayan archaeological sites, the mysterious cenotes, and other adventures that might tickle your fancy. It has become a major destination in Mexico and a popular but much less crowded option than Cancun (just 45 minutes away).

It was once a fishing village but has since transformed into a tourist destination because of its white-sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, great cuisine, and the friendly people. You should definitely start your trip by discovering shops, bars, and restaurants on the cobblestone street, lined with palm trees called 5th Avenue or Quinta Avenida, a famous walkway for tourists and locals alike.

Playa del Carmen is also home to the Meso-American Barrier Reef, which is the second-largest coral reef in the world, just off the coast of the city. Whether you love snorkeling or you are already a professional scuba diver, this is as good a place as any to get inspired to dive in and marvel at the underwater beauty of this area.

In any case, that’s but just a taste of what this amazing town has to offer, so let’s get on to the best Playa del Carmen tours and activities to choose from…

Visit Chichén Itzá, Hubiku Cenote, and Valladolid

Visit the Chichen Itza archaeological site , chill in a cenote, and explore an old Hispanic town, which sounds like the perfect full-day tour to join when you are in Playa del Carmen. This Chichén Itzá All-Inclusive with Hubiku Cenote & Valladolid tour offers a complete look at the region. 

Start your day with a scenic drive to the Yucatan jungles where you can take a refreshing dip at Hubiku Cenote to start. This cavernous sinkhole of cool freshwater is in a limestone cave, and the Hubiku Cenote is just one of the 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula.

A swim can sure leave you hungry and this buffet lunch of typical Mayan dishes should fill you up. After, you’ll hop on back to the bust for the drive to Chichén Itzá .

Chichén Itzá is one of the most famous and visited Mayan sites in Mexico. The ancient Mayans were considered to be the best builders in the New World and has surpassed the Greeks and Egyptians with their advanced mathematics and engineering.

At the height of Chichén Itzá, it was known to have as many as 50,000 inhabitants in a total area of 10 square kilometers (4 square miles). The sacbes or raised roads connect the structures within the complex and some connect to different cities. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit when you are in Playa del Carmen.

You can learn more about Chichén Itzá by visiting the main structures such as the Great Ball Court, the Temple of Warriors, El Caracol, the Platform of Eagles and Jaguars, the Platform of Venus, the Tzompantili, The Temple of the Jaguars, the Nunnery, Akab Dzib, La Iglesia, and the Temple of the 1,000 Columns.

After appreciating Mayan history in this well-guided Chichén Itzá All-Inclusive with Hubiku Cenote & Valladolid tour, hop on back to the bus for some refreshments as you drive to the next stop, the colonial city Valladolid. Exploring this city will surprise you at every turn, with its history, culture, and people. It’s a cool place, for sure!

Book your Chichén Itzá, Hubiku Cenote & Valladolid tour now.

Visit Tulum and Cobá Ruins

This interesting full-day tour includes the two ancient cities/ruins of Tulum and Cobá, a visit to the sacred sinkhole of the Mayans, a cave, and even a taste of the region. Tulum, Cobá and Hilario Cave Day Trip is most certainly an epic tour that you should consider booking while you’re in Playa del Carmen.

First stop is the Tulum archaeological site just south of Playa del Carmen. This is a port city of the Mayan civilization and here you can find the remains of temples, pyramids, observatories, and palaces. This was once ruled by the supreme Halach Uinicoob.

The Mayan megacity of Tulum was already flourishing when the Spaniards came. This site shows off plenty of incredible ruins, but it is perhaps most famous because the location of this ancient site also overlooks the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Your next will be the drive to the ancient city of Coba, where you’ll learn how important this ancient megacity was to the other Mayan cities in Mesoamerica at that time.

Coba became a center of trade and worship within the area and the proof of which is the interconnected sacbes or white roads. There have been more than 50 sacbes discovered and exposed on site, 16 of which are now open to the public.

These sacbes start from city center are said to have continued miles away from the city and connected to sacbes of other cities (the longest road is known to have run for 100 miles to the city of Yaxuna).

What I love about Coba is that it gives you the feel of the ultimate Indiana Jones ancient city, hidden in the jungles. Also, since it is a lesser-known Mayan site than Tulum and Chichen Itza , it receives fewer tourists and the structures are quite well-preserved. You can even climb the 42-meter tall pyramid to see the green jungles surrounding it! Something you can’t do at Chichen Itza.

Only a handful of structures of pyramids, temples, and observatories were discovered from the 6,500 structures that were believed to have been part of this ancient city. You can even wander off into the jungle to find buildings covered in trees and forest.

After lunch, head on to the closed cenote of Hilario Cenote Cave and be amazed by the stalactites and crystal clear waters. Descend into the cenote with a spiral staircase and jump into the cool waters of this cenote (the waters in this cenote stay at around 20 to 21 degrees Celsius).

Finally, you’ll get to refresh at Playa Paraiso, which is also one of the must-visits when you are in Playa del Carmen. White sand beaches are like a code word for a perfect holiday.

Book your Tulum, Cobá and Hilario Cave Day Trip now.

The Old City of Ek Balam & Cenote Maya

Mexico is the former home of the Mayans and you will get to visit another incredible ancient city called Ek Balam on this Ek Balam & Cenote Maya: Full-Day Tour . You also get to chill in one of the best cenotes in the Yucatan which is Cenote Maya. 

You’ll start with a visit to Cenote Maya which is just a mile away from Ek Balam, literally next door to this great Mayan ruins.

Descend into the cenote in a wooden staircase (done with ancient Mayan building techniques). Cenote Maya is a freshwater sinkhole with some beautiful rock formations. You can swim, dive, rappel, or even do a Tarzan swing from a sturdy vine!

If you are someone who likes to buy and support local artisans while traveling, you will have a chance to explore a local market, where you can choose from many locally made items which make for great souvenirs to take back home. And look out for the Mayan ritual performed here and be part of an authentic blessing ceremony by a shaman.

After the swimming and artisan market, you’ll get to enjoy a buffet of traditional Mexican food. Choose from the lime soup, beans, vegetables, rice, chaya tamales, chicken, and handmade tortillas.

Then for the last and most important part of this tour, you’ll proceed to the ruins of Ek Balam. Older than Chichen Itza , Ek Balam dates back to 100 BC and reached its height at 700 BC – 1,200 BC. Having the chance to explore this impressive site which was just recently restored is a pretty special thing.

In Ek Balam (the name means Black Jaguar in the Mayan language) you can find the main Acropolis structure, one of the biggest structures discovered in Yucatan measuring to 500 feet long and 200 feet wide. You can still climb the structures but make sure you are up for a workout because while this mega structure is only 95 feet high, it is steep!

Ek Balam is one of the most impressive ceremonial centers of the ancient Mayans. There are unique high-relief sculptures, wall paintings, and decorations. One of the interesting things found here is the temple with a huge “monster mouth” which represents a portal to the underworld to the Mayans.

There was evidence found here that suggest that blood sacrifices were done as part of the ceremonies and rituals done by the priests and nobles. Although there is not much information, archaeologists continue to find more structures and artifacts which illuminate how these ancient people lived.

If you climb to the summit of the major temple, you can even see Coba (30 miles away) on a clear day. If not, you still can say you got a bird’s eye view like an ancient king.

Book you Ek Balam & Cenote Maya: Full-Day Tour now.

Whale Shark Safari

Playa del Carmen is a jump-off point of water activities and one of the best things you can do here is the Whale Shark Safari Snorkeling Tour . This full-day tour of snorkeling and swimming with the largest fish in the world is a safe and interesting way of spending some of your time in Playa del Carmen.

Start early at 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM for pickup and proceed to Punta Sam in Cancun . Then from here, you will ride a speed boat to the area where you will find the whale sharks. You can watch them from your boat or, better yet, swim with these docile creatures!

The gentle giants measure up to 46 feet (14 meters) and weigh up to 15 tons. The whale shark is the largest fish in the world but they only feed on plankton and even seem to casually enjoy human interaction. Don’t worry, you will be safe with the tour guides and you will be provided with your full snorkeling gear, masks, flippers, and life vests.

Not only will you get to see whale sharks but also have a stop at Isla Contoy which is home to an abundance of sea and birdlife. Look for the rare “Chimay Birds” (your guides will point them out to you) and enjoy the sights of flocks of flamingos, ibis, egrets, and pelicans. And usually, wild dolphins will frolic around the boats along with stingrays and sea turtles.

Book your Whale Shark Safari Snorkeling Tour now.

Excursion for the Day: Xel-Há Park

Spend an adventure-packed day at the natural wonder of Xel-Há Park with this all-inclusive Xel-Há Park Excursion day pass. This is a ticket to enjoy the lazy river, mangrove forest, colorful schools of fish, snorkeling, swimming, and a lot more.

Xel-Há offers different experiences on land and water but they also make sure that they take care of the environment so that people can continue to enjoy this park. Stroll along jungle paths and dive into cenotes in this natural park, or marvel at the native flora and fauna while you discover the forests, rivers, freshwater pools.

Complete this experience with a buffet of delicious Mexican and international cuisine with unlimited drinks. There is an open bar available all day.

Dive into the waters or do a Tarzan jump to experience Xel-Ha’s natural aquarium and spectacular ecosystem. Let me know how your adventure was, okay?

Book your Xel-Há Park Excursion now.

Cooking Class with Local Chef & Market Tour

Always learn from the best, particularly when it comes to cooking! Why not take the time to learn how to cook Mexican recipes from scratch with a local chef in a half-day Cooking Class & Local Markets Tour package? Meet Chef Alma and she will be your expert guide to immerse into the local flavors of Playa del Carmen.

Chef Alma will help you choose ingredients to be used in the many recipes you will be learning how to cook after stopping at the local market for supplies.

Discover an off-the-beaten-path tour of one of Playa del Carmen’s different neighborhoods and its markets to scout for the best produce to cook. You’ll learn how the locals select their produce and where they buy their groceries for their daily meals.

After the market tour and shopping, Chef Alma will lead you to her kitchen to prepare a feast of Mexican home-style dishes. In this short cooking class, you will cook a 3-course meal and enjoy the different foods that you will prepare along with tequila for lunch.

Don’t worry, all recipes will be emailed to you at the end of the class so you can recreate these Mexican home-cooked meals experience back in your own home. Cooking and food classes are one of my favorite ways to experience a new destination, and Mexican food is some of the best in the world!

Book your Cooking Class & Local Markets Tour now.

Full-Day Sailing Trip to Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island in the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean. You will get to explore this island and the waters around it on this Full-Day Sailing Trip to Isla Mujeres . On the way there, you can often see dolphins and turtles swimming beside the catamaran as it sails through the warm waters.

This full-day catamaran sailing trip to Isla Mujeres is a must-do while you are in Playa del Carmen. More than just a beach, Isla Mujeres also has a rich and colorful history with the Mayans crossing to this island during pre-Hispanic times.

And there are even stories of famous pirates such as Fermin Mundaca hiding on this island and your guide will also share stories about the cave of sleeping sharks which was discovered in the 1970s.

On this catamaran trip, you’ll get to snorkel and swim along the Machones Reef and marvel at the incredible life teeming just below the water’s surface. Manchones Reef has clear waters with abundant marine life that is definitely worth exploring.

A visit to Isla Mujeres should be on the itinerary for almost any visit to the Yucatan Peninsula.

Book your Full-Day Sailing Trip to Isla Mujeres now.

Parasailing Adventure in Playa del Carmen

The thrilling Parasailing Adventure is awaiting you in Playa del Carmen! If you are up for an exhilarating ride with unparalleled views of the Caribbean Sea and Playa Del Carmen, then you should be down (or should we say up?) for this adventure.

A boat will propel you to new heights and as you rise you, and you’ll get to sail along the beautiful blue waters in front of Playa del Carmen. You can enjoy this breathtaking ride alone or with a companion — and while the tour is quick, it’s definitely unforgettable.

This tour includes round trip transport from your hotel, snacks, and refreshments. The operator is trained by the Professional Association of Parasailing Operators (PAPO) and will fly from the world-famous Playa Maroma, so you can be assured of a safe and fun trip!

Book your Parasailing Adventure now.

Jungle Ziplining & Horseback Riding Experience

For adrenaline junkies, this Jungle Ziplining & Horseback Riding Adventure Experience is a perfect half-day tour to choose. This Jungle Ziplining & Horseback Riding Adventure is a fun-filled experience that will let you explore the incredible jungles and nature in the area.

You’ll start with an easy horse ride at the park where you will navigate through some narrow jungle paths. Enjoy the (relative) coolness of the jungle paths and the beautiful landscape.

The next activity will be zip-lining through the canopy above the forest. You will fly among the treetops! Feel the rush of zip lining through each of the 10 towers distributed across seven lines and two suspension bridges. You’ll get the blood flowing and be amazed by the flora and fauna as you swoosh through the treetops.

Finally, you’ll get to zipline above the cenote and jump into the water, where you’ll finish the adventure with a chill swim in the cenote. A relaxing end to a thrilling day!

Book your Jungle Ziplining & Horseback Riding Adventure Experience now.

Rio Secreto Underground River Tour

Explore the Rio Secreto Nature Reserve on this full-day Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves tour. This is one of the most spectacular underground caves in Mexico (and maybe even the world).

You can see the most famous crystal caves inside Rio Secreto. This is one of the wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula and this is a must-visit which just outside Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

First, the guides will be giving you a safety review and provide you with the wetsuit, life vest, and water shoes. Then you’ll follow your guide as you descend into the underground cave to marvel at the crystal formations on the ceiling and the floor of the cave. There are some truly dramatic mineral forms and vibrant colors to discover here.

Enjoy a day of crystalline waters in this mysterious and amazing cave before you head on back to your hotel.

Book your Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves now.

More Playa del Carmen Tours

Playa del Carmen, or “Playa” as it commonly called by locals, has so many things in store for a traveler who wants to experience more exciting tours and activities both on and off the beach.

Playa del Carmen is also a great place to base yourself thanks to its location near popular Mexican cities like Tulum , Cozumel, and Cancun , thus adding possibilities of adventures and activities that you can fill up your days while you are in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.

Right in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, Playa del Carmen is more of a bohemian lifestyle in the Caribbean compared to Cancun. The people are warm and friendly which makes for a great place to stay longer to experience more of the warm days and fun nights along the beach.

Playa del Carmen will always be a fun place for you to visit or to come back again. Indeed, if I had to choose one between Playa or Cancun, I’d choose Playa del Carmen — the city has a cool laid back vibe that I quite enjoyed compared to the Las Vegas-like experience in Cancun.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Playa del Carmen

Traveling to Playa Del Carmen soon? Be sure to book your room from Booking.com now to save on the best Playa Del Carmen hotels. If you are staying for a few weeks, I highly recommend looking into Airbnb units.

Check out my ultimate guide to traveling to Mexico if you plan to explore more of Mexico, including some of the other interesting Mexican cities nearby like Merida , Cancun , or Tulum . And don’t forget to purchase travel insurance for Mexico to protect yourself against injury, theft, and sickness. I use and recommend World Nomads thanks to its combination of coverage and affordability.

Read Next: 7 Amazing Places in Mexico are NOT on the Beach

Mexico Travel Tips

Important tips and resources for planning an amazing trip to Mexico, based on my extensive experience traveling across the entire country.

• Lonely Planet Mexico
• Momondo Flight Search
• World Nomads Travel Insurance
• Booking.com
• Get Your Guide Tours & Activities

Instructions

• Book a cheap flight to Mexico with Momondo , or better yet, start travel hacking so you can fly for free.
• Plan a rough itinerary and how long you will spend in each destination. Pick up Lonely Planet Mexico to help with this.
• Work every day to teach yourself Spanish , you want to know as much as possible before you arrive.
• Book your cheap accommodation in advance, at least for the first destinations -- For hostels use: Booking , for cheap hotels use: Hotels.com , for apartments use: Airbnb .
• Reserve your on the ground tours and activities through Get Your Guide .
• Purchase travel insurance for Mexico with World Nomads to protect yourself from illness, injury, and theft while in Mexico.
• Check out my comprehensive guide about traveling to Mexico with information on cities, things to do, places to see, and more.
• Learn more money saving tricks with my top budget travel tips if you want to get more bang for your buck.
• Put together your Mexico packing list.
• Enjoy this incredible country!

I hope this helped you plan your travels in Mexico! I know it can be a struggle to find accurate and on the ground information when traveling to a new place like Mexico, which is why I started writing so extensively about it!

If you have any questions about Mexico, budget travel, or anything else shoot me an email at [email protected].

(I love getting questions! That is how I get ideas for my blog posts and what to write about!)

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15 Best Playa del Carmen Cenote Tours in 2024

Looking for the best cenote tours in Playa del Carmen Mexico? You’ve come to the right guide!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , I’ve personally been on many amazing cenote tours in the area.

What’s great about Playa del Carmen cenote tours is that they provide a totally hassle-free experience with transportation, guides, and equipment included.

So you don’t have to worry about renting a car or getting to remote cenote locations on your own–and you’ll have a knowledgable tour guide to show you the way.

MY TOP PICK

⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?

The best cenote tour in Playa del Carmen is Xenotes , an incredibly fun all-inclusive cenote tour that takes you to 4 private cenotes.

In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations for the best Playa del Carmen cenote tours , including group cenote tours, private cenote tours, and scuba diving tours.

So whether you’re looking for a private experience with your family, a group adventure with friends, or a solo activity, you’ll find the perfect Playa del Carmen cenote tour in this guide!

Ready to find out which of these best Playa del Carmen cenotes tours is right for you? Let’s dive in!

Top 3 Picks: Best Playa del Carmen Cenote Tours

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Xenotes

✅ 4 Private Cenotes ✅ All Inclusive

Rio Secreto

✅ Underground River ✅ Cenotes + Caves

4 Private Cenotes, Zip-Lines, Canoes & Mayan Village

✅ Private Tour ✅ Cenotes + Ziplining

Best Group Playa del Carmen Cenote Tours

These are the best group cenote tours Playa del Carmen has to offer:

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 670 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 9 hours
• 🎟  HOW TO BOOK :  Check prices and availability here →

My top recommendation for the best Playa del Carmen cenotes tour is definitely Xenotes !

Pronounced “Shay-know-tays”, Xenotes is an all-inclusive tour by Grupo Xcaret where you can visit four different types of cenotes (open, semi-open, ancient, and cavern) in one day.

At these private cenotes, you’ll also get to experience a variety of different water activities like rappelling, ziplining, kayaking, swimming, and cliff jumping. 

Round-trip transportation, a certified tour guide, breakfast, and a picnic lunch are included in the admission. It’s so convenient and a ton of fun!

We had an excellent time on this Cenote tour. Pick up and drop off at our resort in the hotel zone went smoothly. The different cenotes were beautiful and each experience so fun. Was adventurous enough for those looking for a thrill, but also had plenty to see and do if you aren’t a daredevil. –DAVID ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

I personally went on the  Xenotes tour  and can’t recommend it enough–it’s the best option for a Playa del Carmen cenote tour and the easiest way to visit a cenote for the first time!

You can read my full  Xenotes review  for all the details!

What’s included in the Xenotes Tour :

• Visit to 4 different cenotes
• Water activities such as water ziplines, kayaking, snorkeling, water slides, and cliff jumping
• Assisted rappelling
• Local English and Spanish-speaking guide
• Use of necessary equipment
• Picnic lunch
• Non-alcoholic beverages en route
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Light refreshments (coffee, chocolate, sweet bread)

2. Rio Secreto

• ⭐️  RATING : 4.5 out of 5 stars (with more than 220 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 5 hours
• 🎟  HOW TO BOOK :  Check prices and availability here →

Meaning “Secret River”, Rio Secreto  is one of the most best things to do in Riviera Maya  where you can swim through an impressive underground river with over 1 kilometer of stalactites and stalagmites.

At this totally unique natural attraction, you get to trek through underwater rivers, caves, and cenotes, as well as participate in additional activities like biking and rappelling.

I would give this tour and company 5 starts. They were great, friendly and provided exceptional service. Our tour guide was Gustavo and can tell that he is passionate. We do a lot of tours when traveling and this one was one of the best we ever did. –MICHAEL ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

And with it being underground,  Rio Secreto  is an all-weather activity and makes for a great rainy day activity in Riviera Maya.

It really feels like you are in another world! Plus, it’s not as commercialized as some of the other cenote parks in Playa del Carmen, which makes it feel more intimate and personalized.

You can read my full  Rio Secreto review  for all the details!

What’s included in the Rio Secreto Admission Ticket :

• Guided tour of the Rio Secreto underground river system
• Light refreshments
• Professional guide
• Use of bicycle
• All necessary equipment
• Round-trip transportation with pickup from hotels in Playa del Carmen available

3. Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All Inclusive Tour

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 14,000 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 12 hours

With over 14,000 5-star reviews, this Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All Inclusive tour  is pretty much the most popular of all the Playa del Carmen excursions.

Not only will you get to visit the Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins–a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the the 7 Wonders of the Modern World–but you’ll also get to swim in Cenote Saamal.

Cenote Saamal is one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula, and it’s much larger and way more impressive than any of the cenotes in Playa del Carmen .

This was a fantastic tour. Despite a lot of drive time, our guide Cesar made it fun and interesting, especially for information geeks. Transitions were smooth and well communicated, Chichen Itza was amazing. Swimming in the cenote was super cool and unique, and the meal after was great. –KELLY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

I personally went on this Chichen Itza and cenote tour from Playa del Carmen and visiting the cenote was definitely the highlight of the tour for me–it’s really unforgettable!

Plus, you’ll also get to visit the quaint colonial town of Valladolid, and round-trip transportation, a certified tour guide, and a buffet lunch are all included.

The Chichen Itza and Cenote tour from Playa del Carmen is a full day tour but definitely worth it for a hassle-free opportunity to see such an incredible cenote and impressive Mayan Ruins!

What’s included in the Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All Inclusive Tour :

• Guided tour of Chichen Itza
• Cenote swim at Saamal Cenote
• 30 minute stop at Valladolid main square
• Lunch buffet
• Roundtrip transportation with hotel pickup from Playa del Carmen
• Certified bilingual guide

4. Tulum Ruins, Turtles in Akumal and Cenote Tour

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 580 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 8 hours

This Tulum Ruins, Turtles in Akumal and Cenote tour  is the perfect combo of exploring Mayan ruins, snorkeling with turtles in Akumal, and swimming in a cenote.

Start your day by exploring the oceanfront Tulum Ruins archeological site , with admission tickets included.

Then, as one of the best Playa del Carmen snorkeling tours , get an underwater peek at coral, tropical fish, and even sea turtles during a snorkeling trip to Akumal Bay .

We had a wonderful experience visiting a cenote, snorkeling and seeing sea turtles and a tour of the archeological site (Tulum ruins). Our tour guide, Victor was excellent, very knowledgeable and patient. We loved learning about Mayan history and culture. It was our first visit to Tulum and we will definitely be back! –RICHARD ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Finally, you’ll get to take a swim in the private Xtun Cenote–a stunning underground cavern cenote with incredible stalactites and stalagmites.

Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen hotels is included, so you don’t have to worry about getting around.

This Tulum and Cenote tour from Playa del Carmen is a great option for anyone who wants to get the most bang for their buck by exploring ruins, snorkeling with sea turtles, and swimming in a cenote all in one day!

What’s included in the Tulum Ruins, Turtles in Akumal and Cenote Tour :

• Guided tour of the Tulum Ruins
• Snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal
• Visit to Xtun Cenote
• Bilingual guide
• Round-trip air-conditioned transportation with pick-up from hotels in Playa del Carmen
• Equipment required for water activities
• Lunch: Traditional Mexican buffet
• Drinks: Fresh fruit water and bottle of water

5. Magical Cenote and Paradise Lagoon Snorkeling Adventure

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 325 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 3.5 hours

This Magical Cenote and Paradise Lagoon Snorkeling Adventure  is perfect for anyone who wants a short day tour to explore cenotes and go snorkeling.

You’ll first get to explore an incredible cave cenote, where you’ll find incredible rock formations and can take a refreshing swim in the cool cenote waters.

Then, head to Yal Ku Lagoon–where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and explore the lagoon’s diverse coral reef ecosystem.

This tour was great. The lagoon is nice but the cenote is amazing. You get a long time to swim in both which makes it feel very worth the money. Definitely worth seeing. –A VIATOR REVIEWER ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Hotel pickup and drop-off from select Riviera Maya locations is included in this Riviera Maya cenotes tour, as well as life jackets and snorkel equipment.

Plus, a certified guide will be there to help you make the most of your experience!

What’s included in the Magical Cenote and Paradise Lagoon Snorkeling Adventure :

• Visit to a cenote
• Snorkeling at Yal Ku Lagoon
• Life jackets and snorkel equipment
• Certified guide
• Bottled water
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from select Riviera Maya locations

6. Small-Group Cenote Adventure Tour

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 245 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 7 hours

This Small Group Cenote Adventure Tour is the perfect way to explore a variety of cenotes near Tulum with a knowledgeable local guide in a more intimate setting.

Avoid the hassle of renting a car or arranging your own transportation–pickup is available from Playa del Carmen to three distinctive cenotes, along with all entrance fees.

You’ll visit Casa Cenote , an open-air lagoon cenote, as well as two underground cave cenotes–Cenote Taak Bi Ha and Cenote Aktun Yax Caan.

Marco was a great tour guide and it was an incredible trip. Each cenote was unique and we saw incredible things and had an incredible time. We appreciated that we were almost the only tourists there for the first two, and the only group for our final cenote (which was our favorite)! –NINA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Cenote Taak Bi Ha is one of my favorite cenotes of the Riviera Maya and is so stunning with its bright turquoise water and incredible rock formations–it’s perfect for Playa del Carmen cenote snorkeling.

With a max capacity of 10 people, this tour is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the unique beauty of cenotes in a small-group setting. Plus, a picnic lunch and snorkeling equipment is included.

What’s included in the Small-Group Cenote Adventure Tour :

• Visit to Casa Cenote
• Visit to Cenote Taak Bi Ha
• Visit to Cenote Aktun Yax Caan
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• All entrance fees and activities
• Knowledgeable guide
• Pick up from Playa del Carmen hotels available for an added charge

7. Five Cenotes Jungle Experience in the Riviera Maya

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 165 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 5-6 hours

Enjoy a unique Playa del Carmen cenote tour away from the large crowds with this Five Cenotes Jungle Experience in the Riviera Maya!

You will explore five different cenotes, each with its own distinct features. You’ll have plenty of time to swim and explore the areas around the cenotes as well.

This was a great trip! It was a small intimate group which I really appreciated (6 adults total). We saw so many spectacular cenotes and had plenty of time to explore all the tiny crevices of each cenote. Each time we were at a cenote, we were the only ones there because he knew how to maneuver amongst the other groups. –LINDSAY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Forget the crowded cenote parks with big buses and hordes of tourists, this tour takes you off the beaten path to hidden gems in the jungle.

Plus, at the end of the day you’ll get to enjoy a delicious dinner at a nice international restaurant in Playa del Carmen.

What’s included in the Five Cenotes Jungle Experience in the Riviera Maya :

• Visit to 5 different cenotes in Riviera Maya
• Life jacket and goggles
• Transportation from Playa del Carmen
• All fees and taxes

Best Private Playa del Carmen Cenote Tours

These are the best private cenote tours Playa del Carmen has to offer:

8. 4 Private Cenotes, Zip-Lines, Canoes & Mayan Village

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 500 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 4-6 hours

Perfect for families, this top-rated 4 Private Cenotes, Zip lines, Canoes, and Mayan Village tour  is one of the best private tours in Playa del Carmen and provides an action-packed adventure away from the crowds.

After getting picked up from Playa del Carmen, you’ll head to Tankah Beach, a secluded eco-park with different types of cenotes and adventure activities.

You’ll get to go snorkeling, canoeing, zip-lining, and swimming in secluded cenotes in the middle of the jungle–all at your own pace.

The tour was excellent! The tour guide Alberto was amazing, knowledgeable, polite, and helpful. He was very patient, answering hundreds of questions of my super energetic kids.The cenotes are mesmerizing! That was one of the best tours in our life. It deserves 10 stars. –ALEXANDRA ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Plus, a visit to an adjacent Mayan village and delicious lunch are included for an added Mayan cultural experience.

And since it’s a private tour, you’ll have your own private driver and guide and can customize the itinerary according to your preferences.

What’s included in the 4 Private Cenotes, Zip-Lines, Canoes & Mayan Village Tour :

• Visit to private cenotes
• Mayan village visit
• Local taxes and national park fees
• Beverages and bottled water
• Professional driver and guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Playa del Carmen

9. VIP Cenotes Private Tour

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 250 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 6 hours

This VIP Cenotes Private Tour is the perfect way to experience the unique and beautiful cenotes in the Riviera Maya.

You’ll have private transportation and a bilingual guide to take you to three different cenotes, where you can snorkel, go cliff jumping, and participate in water activities.

This private cenote tour in Playa del Carmen includes visits to Yal-Ku Lagoon, Cenote Xunaan Ha, and Cenote Taak Bi Ha .

Much better than expected. Jony was our guide. He enjoys his job very much. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Was worth every penny. –RONALD ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

You’ll get to experience many different types of cenotes including an open-air lagoon, an open cenote, and an underground cavern–all with a knowledgeable guide to explain their history and significance.

Plus, this custom tour includes all equipment and transportation and can be personalized to your preferences.

What’s included in the VIP Cenotes Private Tour :

• Visit to Yal-Ku Lagoon
• Visit to Xunaan Ha
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Private guide
• Round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen

10. Private Dream Underground World Tour

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 275 5-star reviews)
• 🕘  DURATION : 3-4 hours

This top-rated Private Dream Underground World Tour  gives you the unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the underground world near Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

You’ll visit the Cenotes Sac Actun underwater cave system, where you can swim and snorkel at your own pace in crystal clear waters while learning about the area’s ancient geology from a knowledgeable guide.

Highlight of trip. Really felt like these kind of adventures were bespoke to Tulum vs Cancun experience. Spend the money to do it private. Much better experience. –VINCENT ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Next, you’ll explore a private cave at Dos Ojos Cenote, one of the most iconic underground cenotes near Tulum.

And since it’s just a half-day tour from Playa del Carmen, it’s perfect for those short on time and want to maximize their experience.

What’s included in the Private Dream Underground World Tour :

• Visit to Dos Ojos Cenote Park
• All taxes, fees and handling charges
• Private tour
• Alcoholic beverages
• Roundtrip transportation from Playa del Carmen

11. Private Tour The Best Cenotes in Tulum Riviera Maya

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 230 5-star reviews)

This Private Tour The Best Cenotes in Tulum Riviera Maya  provides a comprehensive exploration of some of the most beautiful cenotes in the Playa del Carmen area–without the big tour buses.

You’ll have a private guide to take you to 3 different cenotes (including Cenote Taak Bi Ha and Gran Cenote), where you can go snorkeling, swimming, and explore the underground caves near Playa del Carmen.

Definitely recommend, the three cenotes were breathtaking and snorkeling was very fun. Cesar was the best tour guide and made us feel very comfortable. He was knowledgeable, funny and a great person to show you this locations. The local restaurant was also great. A great part of our vacation! –SHELBY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Your guide will provide insights into the geological formation of each cenote, as well as their cultural and spiritual significance to the Mayan people.

Plus, you’ll get to conclude the tour with a delicious Mexican lunch at a local restaurant. And round-trip transportation is included for a hassle-free time.

What’s included in the the Best Cenotes in Tulum Riviera Maya Private Tour :

• Visit to 3 cenotes
• Private transportation from Playa del Carmen

12. Private Tour–The Best Cenotes in Yucatan–Suytun & Oxman

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 185 5-star reviews)

This Best Cenotes in Yucatan Private Tour  will take you from Playa del Carmen to Valladolid to see some of the best cenotes in the  entire Yucatan peninsula .

You’ll get an early start to beat the crowds and get the best photos of these Instagrammable cenotes including Cenote Suytun, Cenote Oxman, and Cenote Xux Ha.

These cenotes are the best of the best and they’ll take your breath away with their crystal clear turquoise waters and limestone formations.

10/10 recommend. This tour was definitely the highlight of our trip. It’s an early morning but so worth it to beat the crowds. The cenotes were incredible, lunch was delicious, and Ulises was the absolute best! He was incredibly knowledgeable and fun to spend the day with! Plus he’s a great photographer! He got all the angles. –JULIAN ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Your private guide will show you the best spots to take photos as well as explain the cultural history and significance of each cenote.

Plus, you’ll get to enjoy breakfast and free time in Valladolid, a quaint colonial town for a more authentic taste of Mexico.

What’s included in the Suytun & Oxman Cenotes Private Tour :

• Visit to Cenote Suytun
• Visit to Cenote Oxman
• Visit to Cenote Xux Ha
• Visit to Valladolid
• Access to all cenotes

13. Private Reef Snorkeling + 3 Cenotes + 5 Zip-lines + Mayan Lunch

• ⭐️ RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 95 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 6 hours
• 🎟 HOW TO BOOK : Check prices and availability here →

This Private Reef Snorkeling + 3 Cenotes + 5 Zip-lines + Mayan Lunch Tour is a full day adventure near Playa del Carmen that combines snorkeling, cenotes, and ziplines.

You’ll start with reef snorkeling at the National Marine Park in Puerto Morelos , followed by a visit to Cenote Zapote, an eco-park along the famous “Ruta de los Cenotes”.

This beautiful eco-park is not very commercialized and is the perfect place to see some gorgeous cenotes and do some of the best ziplining in Playa del Carmen .

We had an absolute fantastic experience on our private excursion with just our family of 6. We have experienced 20+ excursions all over the world and this was hands down the best one yet! –JUSTIN ( read more reviews )

The three different cenotes you’ll visit on the tour offer all kinds of fun including overwater ziplines, extreme cliff jumping, and cave exploration.

I personally went on this tour with some blogger friends and it was such a memorable and unique experience–you can read my full  Cenote Zapote guide  for all the details!

What’s included in the Private Cenote Zapote Tour :

• Snorkeling at the Puerto Morelos National Marine Park
• Visit to Cenote Zapote Eco-Park with ziplines and 3 cenotes
• Air-conditioned vehicle with pickup from Playa del Carmen
• Private tour guide
• All entrance fees and taxes

14. SUP Cenote Tour–Private Paddleboard & Snorkel Tour

• ⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 stars (with more than 20 5-star reviews)

This SUP Cenote Tour  offered by Aloha Paddle Club combines the best of both worlds–standup paddleboarding (SUP) and snorkeling in a cenote.

During the tour you’ll paddle through Casa Cenote , the largest open cenote in Tulum, and you’ll get to explore the crystal clear waters, spot wildlife like birds, fish and crabs, and maybe even glimpse Panchito the resident croc!

So glad we picked this tour! Our guides arrived right on time to pick us up. They were awesome! Very knowledge and also lots of fun. The laguna was beautiful and the taco place they took us to for lunch was amazing. The guides took lots of fun photos. Would definitely recommend this tour. –A TRIPADVISOR REVIEWER ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Your guide will provide a short SUP intro and you’ll be given plenty of time to explore the cenote, as well as practice your paddleboarding skills.

The still and clear emerald fresh water of the cenote makes it perfect for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming.

I’m personally a member of Aloha Paddle Club for paddleboarding in Playa del Carmen and can’t recommend them enough!

What’s included in the SUP Cenote Tour–Private Paddleboard & Snorkel Tour :

• Paddleboarding tour to Casa Cenote
• All equipment
• Private transportation

Best Playa del Carmen Cenote Diving Tours

These are the best scuba diving cenote tours Playa del Carmen has to offer:

15. Scuba Diving in Cenote Kukulkan from Playa del Carmen

This Scuba Diving in Cenote Kukulkan from Playa del Carmen Tour  offers an amazing and unforgettable experience–scuba diving in one of the most impressive cenotes in Riviera Maya.

Cenote Kukulkan is a massive underwater cave full of crystal clear water and amazing limestone formations where you can explore the Mayan underworld.

BEYOND AMAZING!!! I’ve been scuba diving for at least 10 to 12 years. I am a scuba instructor. This has been the most freaking amazing different dive I’ve ever done. Great professional guides. They know their stuff. I’ll NEVER forget this one! –MARY ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Best suited for advanced divers, cenote diving is a totally unique and magical experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

Your professional guide will provide expert instruction on cave diving safety, technique, and gear.

You’ll learn how to navigate the caves and explore the depths of the cenote with an experienced guide by your side.

What’s included in the Scuba Diving in Cenote Kukulkan Tour :

• Scuba dive in Cenote Kukulkan
• Professional multilingual guide
• Typical Mexican lunch
• Snacks and refreshments throughout the day
• Scuba equipment rental
• Transportation from meeting point in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen Cenote Tours: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about cenote tours in Playa del Carmen:

Absolutely! Cenotes are one of the most unique and beautiful natural attractions in Mexico, and a visit to at least one is a must while visiting the Riviera Maya. The clear waters and spectacular rock formations make for an unforgettable experience.

Yes, many cenotes near Playa del Carmen are open to the public and don’t require a tour. However, cenote tours from Playa del Carmen offer a more hassle-free experience with a tour guide, transportation, and equipment.

Playa del Carmen cenote tours typically range from $70-$250 USD per person, depending on the type of tour and the number of people. Private Playa del Carmen tours will cost much more than group tours.

It is recommended to wear a swimsuit, coverup, and water shoes on a cenote tour from Playa del Carmen. It’s also a good idea to bring a rash guard , as sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in cenotes. Plus, they provide extra warmth when swimming in the cold cenote waters.

Yes, almost all cenotes offer life jackets, which makes swimming in deep water very easy even if you’re not a strong swimmer. Plus, many cenotes offer shallow areas and platforms that are accessible to non swimmers.

Sunscreen is not allowed in cenotes as it can contain chemicals that can damage the delicate ecological balance of the underground ecosystem. The best way to protect your skin from the sun is to wear a rash guard or other protective clothing.

Yes, it is highly recommended to wear water shoes in a cenote as the ground can be rocky and slippery. Plus, they will protect your feet from any sharp objects.

Conclusion: Best Playa del Carmen Cenote Tours

I hope that this article has helped you to discover the best Playa del Carmen cenote tour for you!

From group cenote tours to private experiences, there are many incredible cenote excursions in Playa del Carmen, which include added benefits like transportation, meals, and a knowledgeable guide.

That way, you don’t have to deal with the hassle of renting a car or getting to the cenotes on your own.

My top recommendation for the best Playa del Carmen cenote tour is Xenotes , which is an all-inclusive tour that takes you to 4 private cenotes. It’s so convenient and super fun!

But no matter which of these Playa del Carmen cenote tours you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience that will be one of the highlights of your vacation in Mexico!

🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.

BOAT TOURS PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Playa del carmen sunset cruises, exclusive private charter for groups, boat tour faq's.

Q: CAN I DO THESE TOURS IF I'M A CRUISE SHIP PASSENGER? A: Yes, most daytrips give you plenty of time to enjoy and have a great time, and still be back with plenty of time to get ready to travel.  The sunset tours might not be available for you.

Q: WHAT IF I GET SEASICK? A: There is always a chance you get seasick when riding on a boat, to prevent this from happening we recommend you take some medications such as Bonine or 24-hour Less Drowsy Dramamine an hour before boarding.  Most people never have a problems, but is better to be safe than sorry.  We don't recommend regular Dramamine because it can make you drowsy.

Q: I AM PLANNING TO HAVE A SPECIAL CELEBRATION.  CAN YOU SET SOMETHING UP SPECIAL FOR US? A:  Of course we can ! We offer different options that can help you have a great day in the Caribbean Sea, we have boats for groups of any size.  We can also arrange very special custom tours for couples or any size of group.

LOADING CHAT...

All our buggies   are from the brand Can Am , for driving the buggy you need to have a valid driving license.

Our fleet is composed of the Can Am Maverick trial 2 seater and the Can Am Defender 6 seater.

Our buggies 2 seater are for couples, singles are not allowed and our 6 seater are for families with children without driving license.

MAYAN COMMUNITY

The visit of this Mayan community can upset some clients as this community is poor in money but rich in their hearts .

As soon as the children are hearing our buggies coming, they will run out to greet you.

This community has very little profit of all tourism coming to Playa del Carmen, and this is one of the reasons we do visit them, our clients are free to help them with some food donations which is not mandatory .

Our tour guides are giving also cultural explanations about the local life of this community.

During our tour you will have a 45 minutes break in a fresh natural water cave also called a cenote.

The particularity of this cenote is that it is lost in the Jungle and not crowded with tourists.

You can take a refreshing swim and do some snorkeling .

Our tour guides are giving you cultural explanations concerning the cenotes.

Also a little Mayan ceremony will be given by our tour guide to ask access to the cenote.

Buggy Tour Playa del Carmen was born more than 10 years ago , we are pioneers in Buggy tours, being the first to carry out this activity in the Riviera Maya, we have received thousands of tourists from all over the world.

We renew from time to time with completely new buggies, so on your visit, you will be driving inside the jungle in the comfort of a 100% new vehicle .

Buggy Tour Playa del Carmen

Do you want to live a unique experience with your family or friends? It's easy by booking now with Buggy Tour Playa del Carmen! 

Playa del Carmen - Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya will never cease to amaze you … With its more than 120 km of extension, its crystal clear turquoise waters, its white sand beaches, cenotes, majestic archaeological sites, natural and thematic parks unique in the world, as well as magnificent hotels and an exquisite gastronomy.

The Riviera Maya is one of the best known tourist areas in Mexico, and even around the world. Its fame transcends so much that this stretch of coast is sometimes better known than the state where it is located, Quintana Roo, in the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Do you want to live a unique experience with your family or friends?

Agence des excursions Tours del Carmen francophones à Playa del Carmen numéro 1 de la Riviera Maya. Nous avons les meilleures options á tarifs accessibles, de qualités et avec la bonne humeur qui nous caratérisent. agence francophone playa del carmen Excursions maison,Excursions dans les Caraïbes mexicaines

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¿Qui sommes-nous?

Je m’appelle Ingrid Garcia

Je suis arrivée á Playa del Carmen en 2015 depuis la Belgique.

Je suis tombée amoureuse de cette belle région qui est devenue mon foyer, je suis maman d’une jolie petite fille qui est mon plus grand bonheur.

J’ai ouvert mon agence d’excursions francophones dans le courant de l’année 2017 Je m’occupe avec le plus grand plaisir du tourisme francophone. Je suis personnellement chacun de mes clients depuis leur pays d’origine ou une fois sur place et ceci jusqu’à la fin de leurs vacances, je veille á que leur séjour soit le meilleur de leur vie.

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